When something approaches its nest, the Killdeer spreads its wings and tail, scolds and may even fly at it. If a potential predator comes very near, the bird tries to lure it away by playing wounded.

Scientific Name:Charadrius vociferus.Family: Plover.Length: 10-1/2 inches.Wingspan: 24 inches.Distinctive Markings: Brown back, white neck ring, two black bands across a white breast and a long tail with an orange rump that shows only in flight or display.Nest: No nest. Its four eggs, heavily marked with brown spots, scrawls and blotches, are placed on open ground, where they blend in with the surroundings.Voice: Noisy call of “kill-dee” and repeats “dee-dee-dee.”Habitat: Lawns, cemeteries, parking lots, golf courses and cultivated fields, usually away from water.Diet: Insects, and occasionally earthworms, crayfish and weed seeds.Backyard Favorites: A protected gravel area where it can lay its eggs.

Range maps provided by Kaufman Field Guides, the official field guide of Birds & Blooms.

Photos

Roland Jordahl

Killdeer

Michael R. Duncan

Killdeer, chick

Information

Roland Jordahl Killdeer

Scientific Name:Charadrius vociferus.Family: Plover.Length: 10-1/2 inches.Wingspan: 24 inches.Distinctive Markings: Brown back, white neck ring, two black bands across a white breast and a long tail with an orange rump that shows only in flight or display.Nest: No nest. Its four eggs, heavily marked with brown spots, scrawls and blotches, are placed on open ground, where they blend in with the surroundings.Voice: Noisy call of “kill-dee” and repeats “dee-dee-dee.”Habitat: Lawns, cemeteries, parking lots, golf courses and cultivated fields, usually away from water.Diet: Insects, and occasionally earthworms, crayfish and weed seeds.Backyard Favorites: A protected gravel area where it can lay its eggs.

More Bird Species

The brown-headed cowbird is in part to blame for the declining numbers of this species. While some songbirds expel cowbird eggs laid in their nests, the Wood Thrush raises the babies, a practice that endangers the survival of its own.